Manchester Hero: Michael Lever, Manchester Pride

Manchester Hero Michael Lever

Manchester Pride events man Michael Lever gives us his Manchester insider tips and favourite haunts.

Name: Michael Lever

Age: 28

Occupation: I’m one of the Events Managers for Manchester Pride and promote my own events under the brand Karnival.

What’s the best thing about living in Manchester?

There’s just so much happening! Every week there is something new that you can get up to. There’s always new bars and restaurants to try out, brilliant nights on at different venues, Festivals and events every weekend! I think Mancunians feel an inherent need to keep their finger on the pulse of what’s cool, so there’s always a real buzz about the city as people try and keep up. Plus, you can walk from one end of the city to the other which makes it easy to stumble home after a night out! Oh and Manchester Tarts too. It’s a pastry with custard and if you’ve never had one, you’ve got try one!

Favourite bar in Manchester:

I love heading over to The Alchemist for the best cocktail in Manchester...The Smokey Old Fashioned. However, I’d have to say that my favourite bar is not a bar in the traditional sense. It’s Barburrito! I’ve got a great Friday lunchtime tradition; ‘Barburrito Friday’!

Favourite pub in Manchester:

The Wharf in Castlefield. I used to work at Barca about 10 years ago and remember when it was Jacksons Wharf but then it shut for ages. Now it’s re-opened and had a big refurb. It’s got a great beer garden and a great vibe. I also head over to Port Street Beer House for their amazing beer selection.

Favourite club or club night in Manchester:

Manchester has such a brilliant night life because Mancunians know how to party. Gorilla is smashing it right now with loads of big names dropping by every week and some of the best promoters in the city putting on parties there.

Secret tip:

Get down to Manchester Pride this August Bank Holiday Weekend because we are introducing an indoor dance arena for the first time! We’ve got some well known DJs and local DJ talent on the bill, plus we are working with some of Manchester’s best nights to bring you an incredible lineup across the whole weekend! It’s gonna be BIG!

Twitter handle: @karnivalevents for what I’m up to and @ManchesterPride for all things Pride!